How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you notice problems, it's worth contacting the company who provided the windows to find out what their policy for repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are some of the most common problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's inner and outer together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could also lead to the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home using some tools and materials. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wash the frame of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points with a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame as well as the l-shaped area where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Finally, prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help of a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. double glazing repairs Wandsworth is a serious problem as it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could cause you to pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs to be aware of to stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may have broken and needs sealing. There may be condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals are failing.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to have this work done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to fix your leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it is worth trying if you have no other options.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail in time. This can be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are put in place. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in place.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. In certain cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can result in the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing can become worn. The rubber seals can be worn out over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the affected pane before placing it back in place and running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may remain. Then, they'll apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that repairing your double-glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade helps by providing you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who have experience carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is input your postcode and the type of tradesperson you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, so it's vital to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or damage caused by collisions with children or pets. This can often be repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames, which is not something you should take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem like warping. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The moisture that gets into your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good thing is that you are able to fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty that typically lasts for 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Always contact your company by email or letter instead of text message. This will make it easier to follow-up with any issues that may arise.